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More than 50% of all coffee consumption in a number of countries is its soluble version. Is there any benefit in such a drink, and what harm can it contain?
Instant coffee is a type of coffee prepared from coffee extract with water removed. There are two main methods of preparing instant coffee.
The first method: spray drying. The coffee extract is sprayed into hot air, which quickly dries its particles, turning them into a fine powder or small pieces.
Sublimation drying. The coffee extract is frozen and cut into small fragments, which are then dried at a low temperature under vacuum conditions.
Both methods are believed to preserve the quality, aroma and taste of the coffee.
Does instant coffee contain antioxidants? Coffee beans are among the largest sources of antioxidants - substances that protect the body from cell defects, inflammation, excess oxidation and cancer. Antioxidants are present in instant coffee, and in rather large quantities.
In addition, one standard cup of instant coffee contains small amounts of potassium, magnesium and niacin (vitamin B3). In general, instant coffee is associated with the same health benefits as other types of coffee.
Instant coffee contains less caffeine than brewed coffee. One cup of instant coffee containing one teaspoon of powder can contain 30-90 mg of caffeine, while one cup of brewed coffee contains 70-140 mg of caffeine.
Therefore, instant coffee may be a better choice for those who need to reduce their caffeine intake, high concentrations of which cause anxiety, sleep disturbances, stomach upset, tremors, and heart palpitations.
Useful qualities of instant coffee. Given that instant coffee contains the same antioxidants and nutrients as regular coffee, it has similar positive effects:
- activates brain activity - due to caffeine content;
- accelerates metabolism;
- reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases;
- reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes;
- improves the condition of the liver, reduces the risk of liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and liver cancer;
- contributes to longevity.
However, it is important to keep in mind that many of the studies in which the above-mentioned properties of instant coffee were concluded were only observational.
Instant coffee contains more acrylamide. Acrylamide is a potentially harmful chemical that is formed when coffee beans are roasted. It has been found that instant coffee can contain twice as much acrylamide as coffee that is brewed. Excessive exposure to acrylamide can damage the nervous system and increase the risk of cancer.
